The Jewel Box

Behind an unassuming facade in Portland's Arts District, The Jewel Box Portland emerges as a revolutionary cocktail sanctuary where radical inclusivity meets boundary-pushing mixology. Founded by visionary Nathaniel Meiklejohn in 2014, this intimate neo-Victorian haven transforms the traditional bar experience into something profoundly welcoming and artistically ambitious.

Meiklejohn's journey from hosting clandestine speakeasy parties to creating one of America's most celebrated cocktail programs reflects his unwavering commitment to hospitality that embraces all. The Jewel Box's founding philosophy centers on creating a safe space for marginalized communities while delivering world-class cocktails that earned James Beard Award semifinalist recognition in 2022. This prestigious acknowledgment solidifies the bar's position among the nation's most innovative drinking establishments, where creativity and compassion converge.

The cocktail program at this luxury Portland bar showcases Meiklejohn's fearless approach to mixology through an intentionally curated menu featuring half a dozen original creations. Each drink represents liquid artistry, from the revolutionary clear Bloody Mary crafted with horseradish-infused tomato water to seasonal masterpieces like the Lavender Pisco Sour and the mesmerizing Smoked Pear Martini. The menu, elegantly presented in a metal picture frame, changes regularly to showcase premium spirits and unexpected flavor combinations that challenge conventional cocktail wisdom. These aren't merely drinks—they're conversation starters that reflect the bar's commitment to pushing creative boundaries.

Stepping into The Jewel Box reveals an enchanting interior that mirrors Meiklejohn's personal aesthetic vision. The curved bar encourages intimate conversation beneath a towering bookcase filled with verdant plants rather than traditional bottle displays. Elizabeth Kleene's floor-to-ceiling mural depicting bearded Victorian ladies and a disco ball creates visual drama, while actual disco balls, velvet drapes, and brass fixtures cast warm, mysterious light throughout the space. This whimsical design creates an atmosphere that feels both theatrical and deeply personal.

The service philosophy emphasizes genuine hospitality over pretension, with knowledgeable staff who engage guests in meaningful conversations about cocktail preferences and flavor profiles. The intimate 20-seat space fosters community connections, whether you're a devoted regular or first-time visitor discovering Portland's cocktail scene.

Reservations aren't required, but arriving early ensures the best experience at this coveted destination. The Jewel Box represents more than exceptional cocktails—it embodies a vision of hospitality where everyone belongs, making it an essential stop for discerning travelers seeking authentic Portland luxury experiences.